What test must be performed to obtain approval for a septic system before issuing a building permit?

To obtain approval for a septic system before a building permit can be issued, a percolation rate test must be performed. This test is crucial because it determines how quickly soil can absorb water, which directly affects the design and functionality of the septic system. The percolation rate, or “perc” rate, helps ensure that the system will effectively treat wastewater and prevent contamination of nearby water sources.

Local health departments often require this test to assess whether the soil conditions are suitable for the installation of a septic system. A failing percolation rate could indicate that the site is not appropriate for a septic system, leading to the necessity for alternative wastewater management solutions.

While other tests, such as water quality tests and soil analysis tests, may provide important information about the environment and health of the soil, they do not directly assess the suitability of the soil for the specific function of a septic system, as the percolation rate test does. The leak detection test is typically associated with existing septic systems or other containment systems rather than the approval process for new installations.